Feng Shui is an ancient system of working with the energies in your home to create a balanced and harmonious environment. When considering feng shui, think in terms of energy that you feel as well as see. Many feng shui experts consider the bathroom one of the most challenging areas in the home in which to create a positive energy flow. Here are some tips to help you overcome energy blockages and create a bathroom that makes you feel good whenever you use it.

The Power of Chi

Chi is the life force or life energy that pervades all things. Blocked chi energy causes problems from illness in the body to discomfort in a living space. One of the fundamental principles of feng shui is getting rid of anything that you don’t love or use regularly. Clutter creates energy blockages and restricts the free flow of chi energy. If you have essential bathroom items that are taking up a lot of counter space, consider installing a small bathroom closet or a storage cabinet where these items can be kept out of sight but are still easily accessible. Installing shelves is another way to create space and eliminate crowded vanity tops.

A Place for Purification and Renewal

Bathrooms are about refreshing, purifying and renewing the body, mind and soul. Greens, whites and blues support the themes of purification and renewal and are therefore great colors for bathroom floors and walls. Houseplants that thrive on high humidity make wonderful bathroom decor, but because many homes have limited bathroom counter space, larger plants placed on the floor or hung from the ceiling are a good choice. Bathrooms should be well-lit with as much natural light as possible, but if your bathroom windows only allow minimal light, consider installing fixtures that will provide plenty of light.

A Private Rejuvenation Spa

In many homes, the bathroom is the only place where you can enjoy complete privacy. Think of your bathroom as a spa or a sacred space where you can be renewed and restored. You can create a nurturing environment in the bathroom with accessories like candles to create a relaxing ambiance while bathing. Scented soaps, rich bath oils, thick towels, plush rugs, moisturizing body scrubs, scented lotions and other accessories can all satisfy your senses and nurture your spirit.

The Bathtub – The Heart of the Bathroom

As far as feng shui is concerned, one of the biggest sources of relaxing energy in the bathroom is the tub or shower. Since the tub or shower is where you physically cleanse yourself, there is a lot of purifying energy circulating within these spaces. When the bathtub is old, ugly, out-of-place, or all of the above, the energy circulating within this bathing area becomes stale and tainted. Whereas, an attractive new bathtub or shower can lend to the purifying and restorative Chi energy associated with bathing oneself.

As you choose a tub, consider a bathtub that works well for your body type. Pay careful attention to the slope of the backrest and arm rests to ensure that you get the best soak possible. For this reason, when shopping for a new bath tub, it helps to visit a show room where you can try out different styles and sizes to find the perfect tub for relaxation and rejuvenation.

Clearing Negative Energy

It’s easy for bathrooms to accumulate negative energy since they are places of purging and elimination. That’s why it’s so important to keep bathrooms spotless. Because bathrooms have high humidity, they are prone to mold and mildew which should be removed promptly. Sometimes sinks, tubs, toilets and faucets deteriorate with age. Replacing these fixtures can make a big difference in the appearance of your bathroom and in the chi energy it holds.

To learn more about creating a chi-friendly bathroom in your Reno home, or to try out bathtubs in various shapes and styles, visit USA Bath to explore your many options for a feng shui bathroom upgrade.